The Clutha District Council had planned to demolish the 64-year-old Kaitangata War Memorial Hall after revealing, in 2015, earthquake strengthening could cost as much as $733,000.
The cost for demolition of the building was put at $85,000.
A motion put forward by Cr Bruce Vollweiler during a council meeting last December garnered support to stay the demolition, in the hope a buyer could be found to repurpose the concrete building.
Now that hope looks as if it may be realised, following an appeal from new resident Steve Parlane during the council’s latest meeting earlier this month.
Mr Parlane, who migrated to Kaitangata from Palmerston North in January last year, told the council less stringent earthquake requirements for private versus governmental property owners meant he could afford to buy and renovate the hall to an acceptable standard.
Questioned on his intentions by councillors, the industrial chemist and engineer said he hoped to use the hall for
storage initially, with a view to establishing a classic car museum in the longer term.
Cr Vollweiler asked Mr Parlane if he had carried out a full assessment of the building and council reports, raising particular concerns about the hall’s asbestos roof.
Mr Parlane said his firm sold an "asbestos encapsulation product", which he was confident would address the issue.
Speaking to the Otago Daily Times, Mr Parlane described the potential rescue project as "very doable and [a building] well worth saving".
"It’s a perfect building for a museum, as its high, small windows offer both security and low sunlight, which can damage vintage materials.
"Basically it’s a concrete box."
The council will vote regarding a tender process for the hall during a later meeting.
